News

The Chicken or the Egg

Silly title for a beef article right? Well the time old question of which came first the chicken or the egg crosses over to the beef industry quite well actually. Which came first the calving or rebreeding?? Both are very important and both have a very direct effect on what will happen next spring. We understand that a live and healthy calf is number one priority and we can all agree that this is the top priority, but do we ever really think about how that calf came to be? It is the direct result of a successful breeding cycle, calving. and then re-breeding that should all happen simultaneously for everything to go perfectly.

Keeping those calves in mind for not only this year but the next, let’s look into some of the things that can make this process almost effortless. I borrowed this chart from our friends at Purina Animal Nutrition. I believe that they have knocked it out of the park with the keys for preparations in calving and rebreeding.

First evaluate your body condition score and making sure those animals are between a 5.5 and a 6 on that scale.

Next be sure that you have a solid mineral program in place for both of these stressful times for your cows.

Ensure your vaccination protocols are up to date as well as carried out prior to and during these times as needed. Also don’t forget about getting some LOL Colostrum Replacer on hand as well as some electrolytes for any challenged calves.

Lastly, troubleshoot anything that has caused troubles in the past and get ahead of them. Utilize not only your vet, your nutritionist, but also your employees to help address any and all concerns.

The team at All American Co-op is here to help you with any questions or concerns you may have about your cow herd. We are more than happy to stop out to help evaluate body condition scores, evaluate current mineral programs, as well as help you to get to the next level with your herd. Let us work with you to Build Better Cattle by Feeding Greatness!! Wishing everyone a safe and prosperous spring!! Thank you for your continued business and support of the beef team at All American Co-op!